Do my essays relate? You bet they do, or at least that is my intention. When I write about power, I also write about leadership, relationships, communication, and the necessity for dialogue.
When I write about unique people, I emphasize their courage and persistence in asserting themselves in the face of power we usually are beholden to.
As babies and children, almost all the power and influence reside in our caregivers’ hands. Soon enough, power begins to shift, not wholly, but enough so that a battle is joined—a struggle between being oneself as opposed to being what others have in mind for us. As I’ve written, the stronger influence usually wins, and we lose or suppress our voice.
By “losing one’s voice,” I refer to the child learning what they feel, think, and wish to express but cannot do so because they are being pressured instead to comply. For most, trying to resist is like “spitting in the wind.” All they can do is get wet.
When I write about unique people that I know well, such as family, friends, and the many I have worked with, I write about them because, in my mind, they are consistently themselves. They have their own voice and express themselves without hesitation. And as one who empowers others, how can I not admire this and them?
So, as you read my essays, keep in mind that I am for using power to nurture and help others grow. But when power is used to manipulate, subordinate, or demean another, harm occurs, and nothing good results. “Stupid is that stupid does.”
I honor power—Who shares the power they have—To grow another
Sy
